When you think of Hyundai, you might think of Genesis. An upscale brand, Genesis offers value compared to many other luxury options. And the 2021 Genesis GV80 is a luxury-level bargain for consumers looking for an SUV with bells and whistles but without a hefty price tag. So, yes, the GV80 provides plenty of value, but is it reliable?

The 2021 Genesis GV80 at a glance

According to Consumer Reports, the 2021 Genesis GV80 starts at $48,900 to $65,550. It’s the first SUV Genesis has produced, and its goal is to put the luxury brand’s vehicles in the minds of more consumers. (Tiger Woods’ crash in a GV80 has certainly helped in that regard.)

Its price is affordable compared to other luxury midsize SUVs. And it boasts style, comfort, and luxurious touches. It also provides a zippy, quiet, and enjoyable ride. But there’s more to an SUV than looks and performance.

Genesis GV80 specs, features, and ratings

The 2021 Genesis GV80 scored 81/100 on its Consumer Reports road test and 4/5 in owner satisfaction. These positive scores are thanks to its great performance, comfort and convenience, road noise, and space. 

According to Genesis, the GV80 comes in three powertrains: a 2.5-liter turbo inline-four engine with rear-wheel drive, the same engine with all-wheel drive, and a 3.5-liter turbo V6 with all-wheel drive.

All GV80 trims also have an eight-speed automatic transmission. The first two powertrains can harness 300 hp, but the V6 bumps the horsepower to 375.

As for accessories, expect wheel locks to prevent theft, bumper appliqués to keep everything looking new, a cargo tray, LED quad headlights, and a two-tone interior with optional wood trim.

Advanced safety features abound. They include forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot assistance, lane-change assist, driver attention warning, and rear cross-traffic alert with collision avoidance.

Though all of the above is impressive, the Genesis GV80 loses points in fuel economy and reliability. Gas mileage is an abysmal 12 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway for a combined 18 mpg. So expect a high annual fuel cost of almost $2,000.

Predicted reliability is also subpar. For example, Consumer Reports gave the 2021 Genesis GV80 a predicted reliability score of only 2 out of 5. Plus, it already has a recall. However, because this SUV debuted only recently, we’ll have to wait to see its final reliability score. 

About that recall

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows the Genesis GV80 is under recall due to a possible fuel leak, dramatically increasing the risk of fire. That’s a serious issue. However, the recall concerns only the 2.5-liter engines and involves the high-pressure fuel pump’s connection to the fuel rail.

If you own an affected GV80, Hyundai will notify you, and a dealer will replace the high-pressure fuel pump for free. The number of units that may be affected is currently 147. Additionally, until recalled parts are fixed, Hyundai urges owners to park their affected GV80 SUVs outdoors and away from their homes. 

Should you purchase a Genesis GV80?

Overall, the Genesis GV80 has a lot going for it. Its price is competitive, it offers plentiful features, and it provides a fun, comfortable ride. And luckily, so far, the recall is limited. But the GV80’s low predicted reliability score from Consumer Reports could be a warning to steer clear of the 2021 model. Satisfied owners might beg to differ, though.